Windows 10 Redstone RS2 to launch in spring 2017

Administrator

09:06, March 4, 2016

Work has already started on the Redstone update for Windows 10, but despite the fact that Microsoft is now shipping PC and mobile builds that are part of this branch to insiders, the company remains quite tight-lipped on the changes it is going to bring.

A new report by WinBeta claims that Microsoft is still sticking with its plan to launch Redstone in two different waves, and the first one is slated to arrive in the summer, more specifically in June.

Builds that are currently shipped to insiders and labeled as RS1 are included in this wave while work on the second wave, very likely to be called RS2, will start after the first one is released. The debut of RS2 is expected to take place in spring 2017, as Microsoft has pushed the date back from late 2016.

The first Redstone update will be mostly focused on apps, store, and Continuum improvements, as these are becoming Microsoft’s priorities for all Windows 10 devices.

The company will push harder for universal apps, and bridges such as Project Centennial and Islandwood are expected to become key parts of the Redstone update. More apps based on them will be released in the store, the report states.

At the same time, Microsoft will also work on the convergence between Windows 10 devices, including here not only PCs and smartphones but also Xbox consoles. Continuum will keep on being a priority, and Microsoft wants to create better sync between smartphones and PCs.

Cortana will be in charge of many more features, and the company is aiming to allow users to control their smartphones without leaving their PCs. Placing calls and sending messages from a Windows 10 PC through the phone will be possible with the Redstone update, just as Apple users can do with their Macs and iPhones.

The RS2 wave of updates will be just a continuation of the first release, the report states, so it’s pretty much what Threshold 2 (November Update) was for RTM (build 10240). It will continue the direction started by Microsoft with Redstone, and features that won’t be ready for the first wave will be part of RS2.

Redstone will also bring several visual improvements, including Start menu, action center, taskbar, and other tweaks. The Control Panel is likely to go dark, as all options will be moved to the Settings apps, and Microsoft has already started work on the transition.

Clearly, Windows 10 Redstone is going to be an exciting update for Microsoft’s new operating system and will certainly be the first major update for the platform. BUILD 2016 taking place soon should help us have a more official look at what’s to come in Redstone.